Youngsters at the Boys & Girls Club of Lake County’s gun violence prevention event get in line to operate some of the controls of a Waukegan police car. Mixed in with a party for the community with bouncy houses and games for the children, plus hamburgers and hot dogs for everyone, was a serious message from the Boys & Girls Club of Lake County about gun violence.
As the youngsters were enjoying themselves both on the playground and in the gym, the room was full of age-appropriate ways for people to express themselves about gun violence. Representatives from 15 organizations were also there to support those in need. Instructing the youngsters was Waukegan police Officer Brad Grosskopf. While explaining how the lights and siren worked, there was also some education.
“This is a good way to begin the summer,” Neal said. “It will help the community feel they can cooperate with law enforcement. Hopefully, this will help put an end to this senseless gun violence.”Both Waukegan Mayor Ann Taylor and North Chicago Mayor Leon Rockingham Jr. were on hand. As they watched children playing outside, they said they understood the seriousness of the evening.
“My brother, my sister, my cousins, a nephew,” Byers said, referring to family members shot. “There is a lot of gun violence around us. Love is the answer. I tell them I always will no matter what.”